Start by confirming which game, age group and position the athlete will play, then ask the local program about equipment loaners. USA Lacrosse lists different required items for girls' and boys' lacrosse, while goalkeepers need specialized protection in both. Check the current youth guidebook and exact product certification before buying.
Confirm the game and age group before buying a kit: youth rules change with age, and boys’ and girls’ lacrosse use different equipment lists. USA Lacrosse also recommends checking with the local program about loaners. Use this list to plan the first conversation with the coach, then verify each product and its current certification.
Core equipment by game
| Player | Equipment list and buying check |
|---|---|
| Girls’ field player | USA Lacrosse lists a stick, mouthguard and protective eyewear as required; headgear and gloves are optional. Check the eyewear’s current standard and SEI listing. |
| Boys’ field player | The list includes a stick, helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, arm pads, mouthguard and protective cup; rib pads are optional. Check the helmet’s lacrosse certification and required chest-protector standard. |
| Goalkeeper in either game | USA Lacrosse lists a helmet, throat protector, chest protector and padded gloves. Compare goalie-specific sizing and verify the applicable chest-protector standard. |
What to ask the program
Ask whether the team loans equipment and whether it has a preferred checklist for the player’s age group. USA Lacrosse notes that youth formats can be modified by age, so use the relevant youth guidebook rather than assuming an adult list fits every team.
For equipment that carries a required standard, check the exact model. USA Lacrosse points families to the Safety Equipment Institute listing for certified products, including boys’ helmets, girls’ goggles and goalie chest protectors. Read the maker’s size chart and fitting instructions for the exact item.
Build the rest of the kit
Field players can use the lacrosse helmet guide, women’s goggles guide and stick-length guide to check the pieces that vary by game and position. Goalkeepers have a separate goalie gear guide. Browse all protective gear.
Sources
Checked November 5, 2026.
Related
Common questions
What equipment does a youth girls' lacrosse player need?
USA Lacrosse lists a stick, mouthguard and protective eyewear as required for girls' lacrosse. Headgear and gloves are optional in its equipment guide, subject to the rules for the player's level.
What equipment does a youth boys' lacrosse player need?
The USA Lacrosse list includes a stick, helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, arm pads, mouthguard and protective cup. Check the current age-group rules and the standards that apply to each item.
Can a beginner borrow lacrosse equipment?
USA Lacrosse advises families to check with the local program about loaners. Ask which items are available and what the player still needs for the first practice.
Do lacrosse goalies need different equipment?
USA Lacrosse lists a helmet, throat protector, chest protector and padded gloves for goalkeepers in both games. Use the goalie-specific guide and current rules for the full setup.